Update 02.07.26
The conference abstract can now be viewed on page 13-15 of the conference book.
Research from the Workforce Voices team was presented at the International Scientific Conference on The Quality of Health Care and Social Welfare – Education and Practice, held on 14th-15th May 2026 in Riga, Latvia.
Dr Goran Erfani (Research Fellow, Northumbria University) presented findings from our secondary data analysis workstream, applying machine learning to national NHS workforce data to identify distinct patterns across over 6,000 general practices in England. Using a cluster analysis approach, the research identified three workforce profiles defined by skill mix and workload indicators — ranging from well-resourced multidisciplinary practices to high-pressure urban practices with the greatest need for policy intervention.
The study provides a scalable framework to support strategic primary care workforce planning and to monitor workforce pressures over time. Its findings are directly relevant to the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan, with implications for staffing decisions, recruitment, and improving access in underserved areas.
The conference, organised by P. Stradins College of the University of Latvia, brought together a wide range of disciplines in public health, psychology, nursing, and health services research, as well as specialists in health and social care from across Europe. Full details of the conference programme are available at https://eng.psk.lv/2026
